Dear Editor,
Last week’s meeting between the Putnam Development Authority (PDA) and the Board of Commissioners left more questions than answers.
While there was no shortage of accolades, there was still no real explanation for issues that directly affect taxpayers.
Most notably, the matter involving Tytan Pictures remains unresolved. The meeting produced no clear or credible explanation of how Tytan could create and deliver a product and receive payment without a fully executed contract. What financial procedures and internal controls allowed this to happen?
During the meeting, one board member stated they were unaware of everything that had been going on.
That admission alone should alarm the public. It raises serious concerns about the lack of basic fiscal controls that would prevent such actions. In short, the questions were acknowledged — but not fully addressed or adequately answered.
Public access was also an issue. The Jan. 13 meeting [at the PDA’s downtown Eatonton office] provided only two chairs for the public. Were reservations required? Based on comments from the joint meeting, I hope the PDA staff and board will plan to provide appropriate accommodations for taxpayers going forward.
Volunteer status does not negate fiduciary responsibility, and public funds deserve the same level of oversight as any private enterprise.
Don Sadler, Putnam County